Typically April signifies the end of the season, as the spring breakers and snowbirds return home and we locals get to reclaim our beloved restaurants and nightclubs.  But this year it seems that season is still going strong- with new clubs, restaurants and spas opening or revamping and fashion, dining and charity events filling our busy social calendars, even as temperatures continue to soar. 

Opium’s New Zip Code

Miami locals trekked to Hollywood this past weekend for the Grand Opening of Opium at The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Friday night, which was hosted by Michael Capponi, featured Swedish DJ Steve Angello, known for kicking Paris Hilton out of his booth during WMC, on the turntables.  On Saturday night, reality star, Kim Kardashian, served as hostess, accompanied by her brother Rob Kardashian, boyfriend Reggie Bush and friend, Venus Williams, all of whom were pretty mellow throughout the evening, hanging out in a corner booth talking.  The throngs of club-goers cheered as Kardashian swung an Opium-branded guitar over her head- a Hard Rock opening tradition, before retreating to her table.

Gen Art’s FASHIONscape

As if the Delano’s orchard isn’t already like a scene out of Alice in Wonderland, set designer, David Glass, added to the whimsy during Gen Art’s FASHIONscape on Tuesday night by installing fashion vignettes to showcase the collections of up-and-coming designers, John D. Schoemann, of John David Collection and Claudia Estrada, of Claudiae.  Like living mannequins, the gorgeous models added to the already visually stunning surroundings and seemed to be having just as much fun as the guests.  At one point, two models in the showcase were chit chatting and cutting up to the point that several of their counterparts had to tap them on the shoulder repeatedly so that a photographer could take their picture.  The unique set-up of the vignettes, which were conceptualized by the designers, afforded guests the opportunity to get up-close to the fashions and enjoy them from multiple perspectives, rather than just catching a glimpse of each look on the runway.  This was most appreciated by the FFWADHD:  Fashion Forward with Attention Deficit Disorder, who often miss entire segments of runway shows due to excessive texting, twittering and/or talking, present company INCLUDED.  On-hand during the evening’s festivities were hosts, Project Runway’s, Uli Herzner; celebrity stylist/ costume designer for Sex and the City and Burn Notice, Danny Santiago; 944 magazine publisher, Alan Roth; nightlife impresario, Alexis Mincolla and a few hundred locals.  Gen Art has catapulted the careers of renown designers such as Zac Posen, Rebecca Taylor, Uli Herzner, Rami Kashou, Eduardo Lucero, Geren Ford, Katy Rodriguez and Vena Cava, to name a few.

Spaaaaaahs

Agua spa at the swanky Mondrian hotel is officially open. Barbara Becker recently hosted a preview of the spa for a few of her BFFs, including: Iran Issa-Khan, Sam Robin, Hello Campos, Tracy Mourning and Amaris Jones, who relaxed in the private lounge areas while enjoying bites from Asia de Cuba.  The gals scored great swag, filled with Sjål Skincare products and invitations to return for complimentary treatments.

Equinox, the fitness center of choice around the nation for VIPs and celebs including President Barack Obama, Matt Damon, Jessica Alba, Reese Witherspoon, Jake Gyllenhaal, Mario Lopez, Queen Latifah, Jesse Metcalfe, Sean “P Diddy” Combs, Lance Bass, Dr. Dre, and Ludacris, is not typically thought of as a spa.  However, on a recent visit the gym-to-the-stars, we found that in addition to their rigorous and fun exercise classes, which include Boot-camp Boogie, (personal favorite) and state-of-the-art equipment, Equinox boasts an awesome spa, complete with all the bells and whistles, available to members and non-members alike.  Equinox puts the “ah” in spa!

Coming Up

Smith and Wollensky, which is known as Smith’s to locals, officially unveils its multi-million dollar facelift on Thursday, with a private party.  The renovations include two new spaces – Smith’s Patio and The Overlook Deck. A major draw of this local favorite is its unique, unobstructed, unparalleled views of Government Cut, Fisher Island and the downtown Miami skyline.  Boasting the longest-standing South Beach happy hour, Smith’s is also ideal for intimate or business dining and private events.

This Friday, Solé on the Ocean in Sunny Isles Beach premiers its anticipated poolside happy hour, Alba, and pool party series overlooking the ocean.  Happy hour goes from 4:00-7:00 p.m. and features two-for-one cocktails. During the weekend pool parties, DJ Baby Dré will spin and a summer “lunch box” menu will be available to nosh on while you bake.

Two and four-legged eaters can blow off steam and get a great bite at China Grill this Sunday, as the South Beach staple celebrates Gay Pride with a Bitch ’n Brunch from noon until 4:00 p.m.  In the spirit of the restaurant’s famous “Dogs Gone Wild” parties, China Grill encourages guests to bring their pooches to the “dog friendly” patio for al-fresco dining.  “Pack leaders” can enjoy a luxurious and recession-friendly three course brunch for just $23 (exclusive of tax and gratuity) while their “best friends” hang out in the puppy play areas or unwind in the puppy lounge provided by Pet Smart Midtown.

You can knock on heaven’s door, (Blue Door, that is) on Monday, April 20, when Blue Door at the Delano, hosts a five-course Joseph Phelps wine dinner featuring chef Claude Troisgros’ culinary creations, which will be prepared by Delano’s executive chef, Maria Manso.   Each of the scrumptious courses, which range from seared tuna to rack of lamb, will be paired with one of Joseph Phelps’ signature wines.   Dinner starts at 7:00 and costs $150.00 per person, exclusive of tax & gratuity.  For more information, call: 305-674-6400. 

Brazil’s most sought-after jewelry designers, Francisca Bastos and Andrea Ventura, will showcase their latest creations during a show at the Conrad from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on April 23.  Brazilian hors d’oeuvres and canapés will be served and a portion of sale proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet.  For more information, visit www.franciscabastodesign.com.

Celebrity Sightings

Josh Hartnett made the rounds last week, starting off on Thursday night, where he took over the Florida Room and performed four songs.  Rumor has it that on Saturday night, Hartnett made his way back to the Florida Room with a hot blonde he had picked up at the club the Thursday before.  Prior to his return to the Florida Room, Hartnett attended Scott Campbell’s Make it Rain gallery show at Miami’s O.H.W.O.W. Gallery.  On Sunday night, Hartnett and a couple of friends hit Bella Rose’s weekly “Black Sunday” party, hanging out at Alexis Mincolla’s table. Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony spent the weekend at the posh Viceroy Miami at IconBrickell, where they swam in the pool at Club 50, toured the property and dined at the chic 15^th floor restaurant with developer, Jorge Perez and his wife, Darlene.  Burn Notice’s Jeffrey Donovan was spotted grazing on a salad at delicious 8 oz Burger Bar. Really?!!!   Gabrielle Union was the guest of honor at the AE District Gallery event in the Design District.  Former Sopranos’ star, Lorraine Bracco, a.k.a. Dr. Melfi, dined with a friend at The Grill on the Alley last week, as did- A-Rod, who was spotted having dinner with his children.

 


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 Neiman Marcus Coral Gables hosted designer Zac Posen at an in-store cocktail soirée on Wednesday, April 1, 2009,  as he presented his fall 2009 collection.

 Event hostesses Carolina Argiz, Evangeline Delgado, Julie Dill, Mari Alarcon Grimalt, Marysol Patton and Sheri Swerdlow were joined by over 100 guests including Cynthia Rodriguez, Sarah Harrelson, Gigi Ganatra, Conchi Argiz, Maria Delgado, Jeanine Hinson, Courtney Parmenter, Lydia Touzet and Dana Shear to meet the iconic designer.

 Miami’s A-list fashionistas enjoyed a full runway fashion presentation reminiscent of Posen’s New York fashion show featuring a grand Steinway piano on the runway.  An ultra chic black u-shaped carpeted runway and sleek black backdrop with the prominent Zac Posen logo also came to life as guests sipped champagne and were treated to passed hors d’oeuvres. Clear ghost chairs and mini lounges were set up along side the runway, while accents of violet and white florals by Karla Conceptual Event Experiences completed the décor elements.

 A collection of forties-inflected styles were seen on the runway. Grand Joan Crawford shoulders, pouf sleeves, ruffles at the hips, and great swags of fabric pooling on the floor were featured in textiles such as metallic jacquards, violet moiré silk, and double layered floral prints.  After the show, guests mingled with Posen and shopped the new collection as a swarm of paparazzi and fashion lovers swarmed the designer.

On Saturday evening Roy and Lea Black hosted the pre-party for their annual gala at Canyon Ranch with a swank soiree attended by scensesters such a s Merle and Danny Weiss, Michael Capponi and girlfriend, Genevieve Lake, Chris Ciccone, Elaine Lancaster, Fabian and Martina Basabe, Rene Ruiz, Ariel Stein and a few hundred others, alongside celebrities, Maria Conchita Alonso, Lucia Mendez, Flex and Alto Reed. Lea Black took to the stage and waxed poetic saying, “If we shine together we shine so much brighter,” as she encouraged the influential crowd to buy tickets and make donations to the upcoming gala on April 18, to benefit Bay Point Schools for at-risk youth. Guests were nearly blown away, literally, on this gusty evening. Maria Conchita Alonzo was no exception, channeling Marilyn Monroe in her flirty pink dress, as she took over the mic to belt out three songs, including “Old Time Rock and Roll” alongside Alto Reed on sax. Alonso lauded Rene Ruiz, thanking him for designing her dress and invited him to join her on-stage. The Blacks’ annual gala, set to take place at the newly revamped Eden Rock Hotel has got a celebrity roster which includes: Pamela Anderson, Lance Bass, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Oscar de la Hoya, Christian Castro, Kim and Kourtney Kardashian, Queen Latifah, Lennox Lewis, Mike Piazza and Serena Williams to name a few. Entertainment will be provided by Patty La Belle, Heather McDonald, Jencarlos Canela and DJ Irie. For tickets and more information, email: Jason Clarke at jasonfclarke@hotmail.com.

Sporting for a Great Cause

The 2nd Annual Nautica South Beach Triathlon took place on Sunday. Throngs joined the likes of Anna Kournikova, who ran while sporting a huge, canary diamond ring, (ever heard of hand weights?), "The Bachelor's" Andy Baldwin, "Dancing with the Stars’" Cristian de la Fuente and winners of "The Biggest Loser:" Michelle Aguilar and Ali Vincent, to run, bike and swim with over 1,600 others, all of whom helped to raise $137, 500 for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

Coming Up

Walk this Way

On Saturday, April, 11, MTV Latin America & Music Industry – Finding A Cure invite you to Walk this Way, benefitting AIDS WALK MIAMI 2009 hosted by former MTV Latin America VJ, Eglantina Zing at Guitar Showroom, 180 NE 39th Street in the Miami Design District. The event kicks off at eight with free drinks provided by UV Vodka and performances by Carlos Bertonatti, Zania and DJ Mauricio Parra. A minimum five dollar donation is requested.

By the Power of RA

Competitive eaters rejoice! On Tuesday, April 14, 2009 RA Sushi Restaurant is hosting the “Spring Sushi Showdown,” where for only ten bucks you can challenge fellow sushi aficionados in an eating frenzy aimed at a grand prize of free sushi for a year, a $600 value, in case you’ll ever be able to look at the stuff again. There are other great prizes and food and drink specials for all who attend. Proceeds from the gorge-fest will go to the Wellness Community of Greater Miami providing education, support and hope to those affected by cancer. Registration, which is limited to thirty, is a must. Applications are available at RA Sushi in South Miami, 5829 SW 73^rd Street. Deadline to register is Sunday, April 12 and all eaters must be at least 18 years old to participate. Registration to compete includes a $10 entry fee (cash only).

Celebrity Sightings

Good Charlotte front-man, Joel Madden, took to the turntables Saturday night for the private preview party of the new Opium at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, where he’s moonlighting as resident DJ. This Saturday, expect to see Kim Kardashian at the new hot spot for the official ribbon-cutting. Over the weekend, Alonzo Mourning dined at RA Sushi; Zack Thomas dined at Area 31; Burn Notice’s Gabrielle Anwar, fawned over the gorgeous jewelry at Francisca Bastos Designs; and Olympic champ, Dara Torres, and actor, Owen Wilson, attended Sony Erickson. Zac Posen showcased his collection at Neiman Marcus Merrick Park last week and dined at Maison D’ Azur, in the trendy Astor Hotel on Monday. NBA stars David West, Chris Paul, James Posey and Rasual Butler stopped into B.E.D. for the popular “Secret Society” Monday night party.  Also arriving around the same time were MTV’s own “Daddy’s Girls” Vanessa and Angela Simmons.

More than 600 of Miami’s A-listers toasted acclaimed restaurateur, Laurent Tourondel, of famed New York’s BLT, as in Bistro Laurent Tourondel (get it?) at the grand opening of the southeast outpost of the eatery last Wednesday. BLT Miami, at the iconic Betsy Hotel, shares the same distinctive style and tastes of its older sister but with a sexier, swankier South Beach vibe. Lucky guests at the opening savored Tourondel’s signature dishes and desserts. The food just kept on coming! Celebs seen noshing on the endless nibbles: Burn Notice actor, Jeffrey Donovan, (to whom people kept referring as “the Burn Notice Guy,” warranting the nickname, “B.N.G.),” Melrose Place hottie, Andrew Shue, Real Housewives of New York City’s Ramona Singer, and Ingrid Hoffman of the Food Network. Other notables included art collectors, Rafael and Marijean Miyar and Bruce and Kathryn Orosz; designer, Alison Antrobus, financier Alan Randolph, fashion designer, Rene Ruiz, and Jonathan Plutzik and Lesley Goldwasser Plutzik, principal owners of the Betsy Hotel.

In a Rich Man’s World

Abba’s Rich Man’s World was just one of several songs that composed the soundtrack to Richie Rich’s fashion show on Friday night at the Fontainebleau. Other songs which conveyed Rich’s message included Money, That’s what I Want, Material Girl and Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend. Rich, formerly of Heatherette, unveiled his latest collection during Rock Fashion Week 2009, (ahem, a “spin-off” of FUNKSHION). The whimsical show, hosted by Elaine Lancaster, featured pink balloons, bubble-gum-inspired whimsical outfits, slinky cat-suits, flirty prom dresses, t-shirts emblazoned with Pamela Anderson’s face, and lots of animal prints. The models danced, smiled, twirled, mockingly blew kisses and showed of their exaggerated, colorful accessories, many of which were shaped like giant dollar signs, in keeping with the theme. Pamela Anderson joined Richie Rich onstage at the end of the show and hugged and kissed and kissed him some more! Backstage, Rich went on and on about Anderson, his “muse,” gushing about how “she’s so much fun, loves to make people happy and is such a great mom.” When asked what makes her happy, Anderson, (looking a lot like a living caricature of Hanna Montana) thoughtfully responded, “My bangs.” Wow! Move over Deepak Chopra! Later that night, Fergie celebrated her 34th birthday with a bash at LIV, alongside husband, actor, Josh Duhamel, Wilmer Valderrama and fellow members of the Black Eyed Peas. Erstwhile superstar DJs, Steve Aoki and DJ AM took turns at the turntables at Blade.

Green with Funkshion

Models, celebrities and VIPs packed the fashion shows during Funkshion, on South Beach last week.   The Green Fashion Show kicked things off on Wednesday and the show’s eco-friendly message permeated the entire week- even the food was “green,” supplied for free to all guests by Pizza Fusion an organic pizza chain in South Florida so committed to the environment that every delivery is made with a Prius! For those who saw the big armored truck with the lit up VAULT sign in front of the tents (and driving around SoBe) and thought, “WTF?” it was neither filled with gold nor money, but with something much more valuable.  The VAULT was the official transportation for all of the models all week long!    From Miss Universe and Miss USA to models from around the world, this truck was party central all week!    Funkshion’s co-producer, Matt Heien, quips, “Who needs cash in a truck like this when you have super models inside? I feel like we just robbed a bank with a note to the bank teller stating, “Give us supermodels and no one gets hurt!”

Steppin’ Out

Nicky Hilton, along with Wyclef Jean, Romero Britto, and Akon joined forces on Saturday night at the SSN Stepping Forward Foundation Gala at the Gansevoort, sponsored by Grey Goose Vodka. The celebs mingled and enjoyed performances by teen dancing troupe, The Untouchables, and Sean Kingston, who performed several songs, including Beautiful Girl, which got everyone on their feet and singing along. On the same night at the Sunset Lounge at the Mondrian, guests got lots of satisfaction at Jade Jagger’s renowned, branded summer Ibiza party, Jezebel, the name of which stems from Jagger’s middle name. Voted the best party during WMC by South Beach locals (in an informal, biased poll), the glowing, glamorous-yet-earthy daughter of Mick Jagger, who inherited the her parents’ best genes, hung out with friends, posed for photos and showed off her new collection of clothing and jewelry in the hotel’s poolside cabanas. Inside the hotel, musician, Perry Farrell, of Jane’s Addiction and his wife, Etty, danced and sang on the bar.

Celebrity Sightings

Paris and Nicky Hilton hung at Mokai on Thursday for Paul Oakenfold’s performance during the Front Page party. Award winning singing sensation, Maria Carey, posed for photos and cheered on husband, Nick Cannon, as he spun at Cabana One on Friday night. On Saturday night, Miami native-turned-Ungaro-chief-designer, Esteban Cortazar partied at Bella Rose with fellow designer, Richie Rich, PR guru Paul Wilmot, famed fashion photographer, Pablo Alfaro and hunky NYC socialite/Miami restaurateur, Fabian Basabe. At the club’s Black Sunday party, DJ Steve Aoki and The Bloody Beetroots performed while LA It Boy, Donovan Leitch, was “murdered.” Attendees of Will Castro’s red-carpet event for Unique Auto Sports on Sunday included rappers Fat Joe, and Busta Rhythms (not Rhymes), Miami Heat stars Jermaine O’ Neal and Dorrell Wright, New Orleans Saint, Jonathan Vilma, Shawn Merriman of the San Diego Chargers, DJ Irie, and White Boy from VH1’s hit show “I Love Money.” Spotted at the Webster during the Femme Fatale DJ series: DJ Cinnamon, DJ Baby Dre of Miami Ink and DJ Gabby of NYC’s LOVE Parties and Les Coquettes, designer Tory Burch with boyfriend/ music mogul Lyor Cohen, and R&B singer, Cassie. Watching the tennis matches at Sony Ericsson: Colombian hip shaker, Shakira, Latin crooner, Chayanne, Vogue editrix, Anna Wintour, NFL players Bryant McKinnie and Thomas Jones, rapper, Common, and singers, Kelly Rowland and Wyclef Jean.

Earlier in the week, designers Russell Simmons, Caroline D’Amore, Abi Ferrin, B. Michael and Lei Marco showcased designs at the Fontainebleau;

Dr. Mc Dreamy, a.k.a., Patrick Dempsey, raced at the Homestead-Miami Speedway and NYC Housewife, Ramona Singer, was spotted at Kung Fu Sushi at the Catalina Hotel and at the BEST Tennis Sony Ericsson Kickoff party at B.E.D., hosted by Ocean Drive magazine. Chef Todd English surprised guests at the grand opening of The Wine Bar at the il Lugano Hotel. Celebs on the scene last week for Miami Fashion Week included actress, Sofia Comparini; stage, movie and television star, Alejandro Chaban; actor Gabriel Porras; television personality, María del Carmen Sojo; actress and former Miss Panama, Patricia De León; actor Vincent De Paul, Mexican actress Angelica Celaya; diva, Elaine Lancaster; and Grammy Award winning songstress, Albita, who wowed the crowd when she sang her newly released hit, “Mis Tacones” (“My Heels”).